Subretinal Fluid

Synonyms

Neurosensory retinal detachment; Serous detachment of the sensory retina; Subretinal exudation

Definition

Subretinal fluid corresponds to the accumulation of a clear or lipid-rich exudate (serous fluid) in the subretinal space, i.e., between the neurosensory retina (NSR) and the underlying retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), in the absence of retinal breaks, tears, or traction (Kanski et al. 2011). It represents a breakdown of the normal anatomical arrangement of the retina and its supporting tissues, i.e., the RPE, Bruch’s membrane, and the choroid.

Etiology and Classification

Changes in choroidal flow, poor scleral outflow, breakdown of the RPE, and leakage/breakdown of normal or abnormal retinal vessels are the pathophysiological mechanisms that are isolated or in combination associated with subretinal fluid accumulation (Wolfensberger and Tufail 2000). There are some defining features, however, that are common to all cases of subretinal fluid: (1) serous fluid accumulation...